USMNT legend erupts at Messi for behaviour following calamitous season end

Lionel Messi and his teammates were knocked out in the first round of the postseason by Atlanta United, losing a three-game series.

Inter Miami started strong by winning the first fixture 2-1 at home, but they went on to lose the second by the same scoreline away to set up a third match.

In what came as a shock to many fans, they were beaten 3-2 in the decider back on their own patch and eliminated from the playoffs.

Messi, who no doubt had expected to add to his legendary career trophy haul by winning the MLS Cup this season, appeared upset at full-time.

According to reports, he stormed off the pitch at Chase Stadium and made his way down the tunnel without acknowledging the home fans, or his opponents.

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That behaviour has since been criticised by a USMNT legend.

Speaking on his Unfiltered Soccer podcast, Landon Donovan suggested the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner should have shown more sportsmanship.

"I don't like that, just shake their hands right?" he said.

"Say congratulations or whatever. Messi walked right off the field.

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"Maybe in the locker room they came out and said congrats or whatever, and by the way, your fans are out there too.

"At least congratulate them on a great season and thank them for all the support they've had."

Crashing out of the playoffs in the first round was undoubtedly a frustrating end to the year for Inter Miami, who posted a new single-season points record in the MLS regular season en-route to winning the Supporters' Shield.

Messi contributed 20 goals and 16 assists to help the team finish top of the Eastern Conference, but they will not be in competitive action again until February next year.

While the Argentine did not appear to share a moment with the fans directly after playoff elimination, he did take to social media to post a message a couple of days later.

"A season ended in which we continued to grow as a club and, although we achieved some goals, we wanted more," he wrote.

"Thanks to all the people who joined and supported us. Now let's get ready to come back stronger next year."

Messi's contract with the MLS side currently runs until the end of the 2025 season, but he does have an option to extend it a further year.

And with Inter Miami missing out on playoff glory this time around, he may need to stick around longer than first expected in his pursuit of silverware.